More Than Half of Indian Travellers Now Prioritise Community-Focused Tourism: Report

Indian Travellers Embrace Sustainable Travel with a Local Focus (Image: Canva)

As global awareness of sustainability continues to grow, Indian travellers are increasingly prioritising community-focused tourism. According to Booking.com’s 10th Annual Sustainable Travel Report, more than half of Indian travellers are now conscious of how their travel choices impact local communities and the environment. The report, based on insights from 32,000 travellers across 34 countries, reveals that sustainability is no longer just about protecting the environment—it’s about uplifting local communities too.

A Shift Towards Sustainable Travel Choices

The latest report indicates a significant change in the travel mindset of Indian tourists. 59% of Indian travellers now actively consider the social impact of their travel, and 63% want to leave destinations better than they found them. These figures underscore a growing belief that travel should benefit not only the traveller but also the local people and ecosystems.

Sustainability remains a key priority for 96% of Indian travellers in 2025, with a remarkable 99% expressing a desire to make more sustainable travel choices in the future. From reducing carbon footprints to supporting eco-conscious businesses, Indian travellers are becoming increasingly responsible in their travel behaviours.

Tourism’s Impact on Local Communities

While Indian travellers are eager to explore new places, they are also becoming more aware of tourism’s impact on their own communities. The report reveals that 74% of Indian respondents feel tourism has a positive influence where they live. Yet, there's also recognition that better planning and infrastructure are essential for sustainable growth.

Among the challenges raised by residents of popular tourist destinations:

• Traffic congestion (43%)
• Overcrowding (40%)
• Rising cost of living (36%)
• Littering (33%)

The Demand for Authentic and Respectful Travel

Authenticity matters more than ever. About 77% of Indian travellers seek experiences rooted in local culture, and 68% want their spending to directly benefit local communities. Many also observe that visitors often respect local traditions (66%) and support local businesses (69%).

This shift is contributing to the rise of community-driven tourism—where travellers engage more deeply with local culture, support small enterprises, and contribute positively to the local economy. Such travel fosters meaningful, long-lasting connections between hosts and guests.

Mindful Travel Habits Becoming the Norm

Over the past decade, Indian travellers have embraced more eco-conscious habits. While environmental concerns remain central, travellers are now equally aware of the socio-economic impacts of tourism. Small but significant habits—such as turning off air conditioning or heaters when not in the room—rose from 55% in 2020 to 66% in 2023, showing a rising commitment to energy conservation.

Additionally, 42% of travellers are choosing off-peak travel times to avoid overcrowding, and 45% are exploring alternative destinations to ease pressure on popular spots. These mindful choices highlight a growing awareness of how individual actions can support the broader sustainability movement.

Looking Ahead: A More Sustainable Future

With sustainability top-of-mind, the future of Indian tourism is shifting towards more responsible and inclusive models. Travellers are no longer just consumers of experiences—they are active contributors to cultural preservation, local economies, and environmental stewardship.

As community-focused tourism continues to gain momentum, India’s travel landscape is evolving into one that values both exploration and responsibility. In the decade ahead, we can expect to see even more travellers opting for destinations that embrace local engagement and long-term sustainability—marking a positive step toward a more balanced and inclusive global tourism model.